Covert action is a troublesome but often useful tool of statecraft

Source: The post is based on the article “Covert action is a troublesome but often useful tool of statecraft” published in “Live mint” on 25th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- International relation- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

News: This article discusses accusations that India was involved in a targeted killing in Canada, highlighting that many countries use covert actions like this. It suggests that whether such actions are acceptable depends on their effectiveness and management of consequences. The article urges India and Canada to resolve their differences diplomatically for mutual benefit.

Was India involved in a targeted killing in Canada?

The article discusses allegations against India, suspecting its involvement in the targeted killing of Hardeep Singh Nijar in Canada.

However, there’s not sufficient public information to conclusively confirm India’s role in this incident.

The situation has led to tensions between India and Canada, with Canada raising concerns and India denying involvement.

A.S. Dulat, a former Indian intelligence chief, has clearly stated that Indian intelligence officers are opposed to such actions and do not engage in assassinations.

Are covert actions acceptable?

State Practices: Many sovereign states, including democracies, use covert actions to safeguard their interests.

Historical Data:

Israel has carried out over 1800 covert operations.

The U.S. executed 48 targeted killings under George W. Bush and 353 during Obama’s tenure.

Morality vs Effectiveness: The realist perspective values the effectiveness of covert actions over their moral implications. The actions are risky and require careful management to avoid unintended consequences.

Indian Intelligence Stance: India, as represented by former R&AW chief A.S. Dulat, claims a strong opposition to targeted killings and asserts that they do not engage in assassinations.

Global Perspective: Many states, including those not labeled as ‘rogue’, have been involved in covert actions to protect their interests, indicating a broader acceptance or practice of such actions globally.

What should be done?

Diplomatic Engagement: The article explicitly suggests that India and Canada need to engage diplomatically to reconcile their differences and rebuild trust.